Elastic brace assembly and methods of use

ABSTRACT

Example embodiments of the brace assembly utilize an elastic cross strap attached to mounting facilities about a joint to provide progressive resistance to the extension, flexion or other movement of body parts about the joint. In some embodiments for a knee joint, the brace assembly provides a progressive resisting force to resist hyperextension of the knee. Some embodiments of the assembly may be able to accommodate different joints, different size wearer&#39;s of the assembly and different tension settings such as for athletes during competition. Some embodiments of the brace assembly may be used bilaterally and can be made without metal bracing to comply with the requirements of some sports.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a Continuation in Part Application of PCTApplication No. PCT/US09/67152, filed Dec. 8, 2009, PCT Application No.PCT/US09/67152 claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.61/262,723, filed Nov. 19, 2009, PCT Application No. PCT/US09/67152 alsoclaims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/263,737,filed Nov. 23, 2009, PCT Application No. PCT/US09/67152 is also aContinuation in Part Application of PCT Application No. PCT/US09/46183,filed Jun. 3, 2009, PCT Application No. PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/058,555, filed Jun. 3, 2008,and PCT Application No. PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/148,973, filed Feb. 1, 2009; thepresent application is also a Continuation in Part Application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/993,258, filed Nov. 18, 2010, which isthe U.S. National Stage application of International Application No.PCT/US09/46183, filed Jun. 3, 2009, PCT Application No. PCT/US09/46183claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/058,555,filed Jun. 3, 2008, and PCT Application No. PCT/US09/46183 claimsbenefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/148,973, filed Feb.1, 2009; and the present application also claims benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/466,909, filed Mar. 23, 2011. All ofthe above applications are related to this application and thisapplication incorporates by reference all of these referencedapplications in their entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT:

Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTINGCOMPACT DISC APPENDIX

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present invention relate to braces that can helpprevent the hyperextension, flexion or undesirable movement of a joint,and more specifically relates to brace assemblies and methods utilizingan elastic cross strap that assists in preventing undesirable movementof the joint.

2. Prior Art

Braces are often utilized to support joints when damage, deformation,surgery or the like has caused the joint to be instable. Sports,physical labor and everyday physical movement can create strains andinjuries to joints such as the shoulder, elbow, back, wrist, ankle andknee. Specific to the knee, most of the running, jumping, cutting ortwisting sports today have the risk of damaging the knee. These injuriesfrequently involve a tearing the ACL in the knee. Many injures to theknee joint have a mechanism of injury of hyperextension in which the ACLis stretched or torn. Many methods have been employed to prevent thisaction to the knee and prevent the injury to the ACL. Taping techniquesas well as rigid braces have been designed to prevent this condition.

One common method of treatment and prevention for these injures today isthe use of the rigid braces. Common to most, if not all, of thesedevises for use on the knee are, adjustable metal hinges on the medialand lateral side of the knee. Rigid arms on each side connect the hingesto curved thigh and calf pieces or cuffs. A series of Velcro strapsattached to these rigid side pieces then wrap around the leg to mountand hold them in place with the cuffs and the hinges. Adjusting thehinge from allowing extension or hyperextension blocks the knee frommoving into to these positions quite well.

With respect to these rigid braces however, many sports have rules inwhich players cannot have any metal or rigid devices on any part oftheir body to compete due to metal or hard structures that may causeinjury to other players. One of these sports is soccer, which is alsoone of the most popular sports in the world. Additionally, with theintroduction of bracing both knees for prevention of injury, the bracingmust have a very low profile on the knees to prevent the braces fromcatching against each other during competition.

Another technique of treating and preventing joint injuries includestaping techniques. While reinforcing joint strength, taping typicallydoes not involve rigid braces that cause problems with sporting rules.

Prior art embodiments of braces having strap elements that crossposterior to the knee joint include U.S. Pat. No. 4,817,588 to GaryBledsoe (Bledsoe) and U.S. Pat. No. 6,368,297 to Jan F. A. Smits(Smits). Bledsoe discloses a restraining strap network positionedentirely behind the knee that has to cooperate with additional braceelements including hinges and connecting means to connect the braceelements to the wearer's leg. Bledsoe does not disclose embodiments ofthe strap network extending anterior to the limbs about the joint. Smitsdiscloses a brace having a strap that crosses at the back of the kneethat like Bledsoe is entirely behind the knee and has to cooperate withother brace elements. Smits also specifically uses stop portions in ahinge to limit extension of the brace elements. Smits does not discloselimiting extension of the brace with the strap.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following summary is included only to introduce some conceptsdiscussed in the Detailed Description below. This summary is notcomprehensive and is not intended to delineate the scope of protectablesubject matter.

Example embodiments of the elastic brace assembly utilize an elasticcross strap attached to mounting facilities about a joint to limit theextension of limbs about the joint. The cross strap has elasticproperties that allow it to provide progressive resistance as the strapis stretched. The elastic cross strap assembly is positioned from across origin behind the joint to attachment points on upper and lowermounting facilities on the upper and lower limbs and provides anopposing tensile force that limits the extension of the mountingfacilities and the limbs about a joint.

In example embodiments for other joints, the brace assembly may providea resisting force that influences appendages about a joint. For example:for an ankle, the brace can be used to prevent dorsiflection, plantarflexion or rolling of the ankle; for a back, the brace can be used toprevent or support bending about the waist; for an elbow, the brace canbe used to prevent hyperextension; and for a shoulder, the brace can beused to control movement of the humerus about the shoulder such as torestrict abduction and external rotation.

In example embodiments for a knee joint, the brace assembly provides aresisting force to resist hyperextension of the knee. Some embodimentsof the assembly are able to accommodate different joints, different sizewearer's of the assembly and different tension settings such as forathletes during competition. Some embodiments of the brace can be usedbilaterally and can be made without metal bracing to comply with therequirements of some sports.

One embodiment of the invention provides an elastic knee brace assemblyhaving an upper mounting facility for positioning the brace assemblyabout the thigh area of a user's leg, a lower mounting facility forpositioning the brace assembly about the shin area of the user's leg, aelastic cross strap having a cross origin, and the cross strap isattachable to the upper and lower mounting facilities whereby the crossstrap limits the extension of the upper mounting facility and the lowermounting facility about the joint when the cross origin is positionedposterior to the user's knee.

In some embodiments, the upper and lower mounting facility may beoperably connected with a flexible upright comprising a rigid materialcapable of bending about its longitudinal axis without stretching orcompressing along its longitudinal axis.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a knee brace assembly wherethe upper mounting facility has an upper mount front portion, the lowermounting facility has a lower mount front portion, the elastic crossstrap further comprising at least two upper arms to connect to the uppermounting facility at an upper attachment point and at least two lowerarms to connect to the lower mounting facility at a lower attachmentpoint, the cross strap having at least two lengths extending along eachupper and lower arm and between the upper and lower attachment point,and the cross strap having an adjusting facility to adjust the at leasttwo lengths to adjust the tension in the elastic cross strap.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a knee brace assembly wherethe elastic cross strap comprises a single strap capable of being wovenabout the user's leg to create the upper mount front portion, the lowermount front portion, the upper arms, the lower arms and an x-pattern asthe cross origin.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a knee brace assembly wherethe elastic cross strap comprises at least two straps, each strap havingan upper and lower end, the two strap upper ends comprise the upper armsand the two strap lower ends comprise the lower arms, and the two strapsare capable of being woven about the user's leg to create an x-patternas the cross origin.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a knee brace assembly wherethe elastic cross strap comprises an x-shaped strap having the crossorigin, the at least two upper arms and the at least two lower arms, thelower mounting facility comprises a shin shell having a means to securethe shin shell about the shin area and a means to attach the shin shellto the cross strap arms, or the upper mounting facility comprises athigh cuff of a knee brace and the lower mounting facility comprises atibial cuff of a knee brace.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a knee brace assembly wherethe upper mounting facility comprises a thigh portion operably connectedto a first article of clothing worn by the user and the lower mountingfacility comprises a shin shell operably connected to a second articleof clothing worn by the user,

Some embodiments of the invention provide a knee brace assembly wherethe upper and lower mounting facilities are connected about a hinge orthe upper and lower mounting facilities are connected about a sleeve anda flexible upright.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a knee brace assembly where anorientation of the upper arms of the cross strap between an upperanterior resistance point and the cross origin create an upper tensileforce line, an orientation of the lower arms between a lower anteriorresistance point and the cross origin comprises a lower tensile forceline, and the angle between the upper tensile force line and the lowertensile force line from the cross origin comprises an angle of about 50to 140 degrees when the brace is worn about the wearer's extended knee.

Some embodiments of the invention provide an elastic brace assemblyhaving an upper mounting facility capable of securing a brace on auser's first limb about a joint, a lower mounting facility capable ofsecuring the brace on a user's second limb about the joint, an elasticcross strap having at least two arms attachable to the first and secondmounting facility, at least one of the arms capable of extending fromthe lower mounting facility laterally to a position posterior to thejoint and continuing medial to the upper attachment point, and at leastone of the arms capable of extending from the lower mounting facilitymedially to a position posterior to the joint and continuing lateral tothe upper attachment point whereby the cross strap is capable oflimiting the extension of the user's first and second limb about thejoint.

Some embodiments of the invention provide an elastic brace assemblywherein the elastic cross strap is capable of limiting the extensionwithout the use of a hinge about the joint.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a method of supporting awearer's joint, the method comprising the steps of securing an uppermounting facility about the upper limb portion of the user's joint,securing a lower mounting facility about the lower limb portion of theuser's joint, extending at least one arm of an elastic cross strap fromthe lower mounting facility laterally to a position posterior to thejoint and continuing medial to the upper mounting facility, andextending at least one arm of the cross strap from the lower mountingfacility medially to a position posterior to the joint and continuinglateral to the upper mounting facility whereby the elastic cross strapis capable of limiting the extension of the user's first and second limbportions about the joint.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a method of supporting awearer's joint where the step of securing an upper mounting facilitycomprises securing an upper cuff of a hinged knee brace, and the step ofsecuring a lower mounting facility comprises securing a lower cuff ofthe hinged knee brace.

Some embodiments of the invention provide an elastic brace assemblycomprising an elastic cross strap forming an upper mounting facility anda lower mounting facility and the elastic cross strap further forming across origin between the upper and lower mounting facilities whereby thecross strap provides a resistance force to an extension of the uppermounting facility and the lower mounting facility about the cross originwhen the cross origin is positioned posterior to the user's joint.

In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap further comprises at leastone portion forming a cross strap arm extending from the cross origin toat least one upper anterior resistance point and at least one portionforming a cross strap arm extending from the cross origin to at leastone lower anterior resistance point.

In some embodiments, the upper and lower anterior resistance points areportions of the cross strap arms providing the resistance force to theextension of the upper and lower mounting facility about the crossorigin.

Some embodiments of the invention provide an elastic brace assemblyhaving at least one side brace element having an upper and lower braceportion, an elastic cross strap and the elastic cross strap attached tothe side brace elements whereby the elastic cross strap is capable ofproviding a resistance force to an extension of the upper and lowerbrace portions about a joint bending axis when the side brace elementsare mounted about the bending axis. In some embodiments, the upper andlower portions of the side brace are connected by a hinge or a flexibleupright.

Some embodiments of the invention provide an elastic brace assemblycomprising an elastic cross strap attached to an upper mounting facilityand a lower mounting facility and the elastic cross strap furtherforming a cross origin between the upper and lower mounting facilitieswhereby the cross strap provides a resistance force to an extension ofthe upper mounting facility and the lower mounting facility about thecross origin when the upper and lower mounting facilities are positionedabout a joint and the cross origin is positioned at a point relative tothe joint and the point is on a side of the joint opposite a directionof the extension. In some embodiments, the point is one of: a locationin a antecubital fossa of a wearer's elbow; a location in a poplitealfossa of a wearer's knee; a location proximal to a talus bone of awearer's ankle; a location proximal to a lumbar area of a wearer's back;or a location in the axillary fossa of a user's shoulder.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a method of supporting awearer's joint, the method comprising the steps of securing a firstportion of an elastic cross strap about one body portion joined to asecond body portion at a wearer's joint, positioning the elastic crossstrap about the joint to form a cross origin at a point of the joint andsecuring a second portion of the elastic cross strap about the secondbody portion at the joint whereby the elastic cross strap is capable ofproviding resistance to an extension of the wearer's body portions aboutthe joint.

In some embodiments of the method, the joint may be one of: an elbow; aknee; a shoulder; a back; or an ankle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the manner in which the above-recited and other advantagesand features of the invention are obtained, a more particulardescription of the invention briefly described above will be rendered byreference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in theappended drawings. Understanding that these drawing depict only typicalembodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered tobe limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explainedwith additional specificity and detail through the use of theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of one embodiment of the brace assemblyshowing a shin shell;

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the embodiment the brace assembly ofFIG. 1A mounted on the knee of a wearer;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the brace assemblyhaving an upper and lower mounting facility;

FIG. 3 illustrates the force patterns of one embodiment of the crossstrap when mounted around a knee;

FIG. 4A illustrates a front view of one embodiment of the brace assemblycomprising a single cross strap about the knee of a wearer;

FIG. 4B illustrates a rear view of one embodiment of the brace assemblycomprising a single cross strap about the knee of a wearer;

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of one embodiment of the brace assemblyhaving an x-shaped cross strap cooperating with a sleeve;

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the brace assemblyshowing the cross strap attachment to the upper and lower mountingfacilities on a sleeve;

FIG. 7 illustrates a front view of another embodiment of the braceassembly with the side brace elements extended;

FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of one embodiment of a brace assemblypositioned as if it were put on a wearer's leg;

FIG. 9 illustrates a front view of another embodiment of the lowerportions of a brace assembly with a shin shell positioned as if it wereon a wearer's leg;

FIG. 10 illustrates a rear view of another embodiment of the braceassembly;

FIG. 11A illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the braceassembly mounted about a wearer's knee;

FIG. 11B illustrates a front view of the embodiment in FIG. 11A as if itwere on a wearer's leg;

FIGS. 12A-12F illustrate different views of embodiments of an anklebrace assembly;

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate one embodiment of a brace assembly for awearer's back;

FIG. 14A-14C illustrate one embodiment of a brace assembly for awearer's shoulder;

FIG. 15A-15B illustrate one embodiment of a brace assembly about awearer's elbow;

FIG. 16A illustrates an exploded view of another embodiment of a bracefor a wearer's knee; and

FIG. 16B illustrates different views of the embodiment of FIG. 15A for awearer's knee.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Although example embodiments are described in detail for use with kneebracing and reinforcement, it is understood that the methods and systemsdescribed can be used for similar medical situations where support ofand resistance to moving joints may be needed. Examples of embodimentswith other joints such as but not limited to the shoulder, elbow, backand ankle are also described and illustrated below. Notwithstanding thespecific example embodiments set forth below, all such variations andmodifications that would be envisioned by one of ordinary skill in theart are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Some embodiments of this new brace assembly comprise a non-rigid orsemi-rigid brace utilizing an elastic cross strap to provide aprogressive resisting force to joint movement such as hyperextension.Some embodiments of this brace assembly may include a flexible sleeve orother traditional brace components. Although some embodiments of theassembly do not need side hinges, metal upright stays or braces andhinges, it is contemplated that some embodiments of the brace assemblymay also include these elements.

One Embodiment of the Brace Assembly:

Although it is contemplated that embodiments of the assembly can supportmany different types of skeletal joints such as elbows, ankle, shoulder,backs, wrists or knees, the illustrative examples below will use anembodiment directed to support a person's knee. Therefore, references toanatomical portions of the wearer's knee are for illustration purposesand not as a limitation.

Example embodiments of this new brace assembly comprise at least oneelastic hyperextension cross strap, at least one upper mounting facilityand at least one lower mounting facility. In these embodiment,generally, the upper mounting facility positions and secures the braceassembly about the thigh area of a user's leg, the lower mountingfacility positions and secures the brace assembly about the shin area ofthe user's leg and the elastic hyperextension cross strap attaches tothe upper and lower mounting facilities whereby the elastic cross strapcan provide progressively increasing resistance to the extension of theuser's knee when the elastic cross strap is positioned posterior to theuser's knee. In some embodiments, the upper and lower mounting facilityare defined entirely by the elastic cross strap to help secure theassembly to the user's leg. In some embodiments, the upper and lowermounting facility are separate elements are defined by portions of braceelements cooperating with the elastic cross strap.

In some embodiments, the brace assembly stabilizes the knee fromhyperextension in the 5-25 degree range.

As shown in the example embodiments of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the elasticcross strap 160 is at least one elongated element able to provide aprogressive tensile resistance force and capable of creating a crosspattern that creates a cross origin and cross strap arms. The elasticcross strap also comprises means to attach ends of the straps, the crossstrap arms, to the upper and lower mounting facilities. In someembodiments, the elastic cross strap comprises the combination ofmultiple elongated elastic straps, cross strap arms, that may beconfigured to create the cross pattern that creates the cross origin andcross strap arms. In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap comprisesa single cross strap that may be configured to create the cross patternthat creates the cross origin and cross strap arms. In some embodiments,the elastic cross strap comprises a single cross strap that has crossstrap arms coming from a pre-defined or integrated cross origin.

In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap comprises one or morestraps of pre-determined lengths and elastic cross straps are selectedbased on the length needed for that wearer. In other embodiments, theelastic cross strap has adjustment elements that allow the cross strapto be adjusted to fit the wearer and provide different resistanceproperties to help prevent joint extension.

The elastic cross strap can be made from material to provide resistanceto stretching in one direction. In one example embodiment, the elasticcross strap is a pliable elastic material that provides progressiveresistance to stretching and as the material stretches, the resistanceto stretching increases. As an example, the resistance properties ofembodiments function similar to the resistance properties of a rubberband. In one embodiment, the elastic material is similar to elasticsports tape. In other embodiments, the elastic material can comprise arubber material, a plastic material or a spring that can provideresistance properties similar to those of a rubber band. It is alsocontemplated that the elastic strap may comprise a combination ofelastic and non-elastic material that still provide the elasticproperties required of the strap. As an example, and not for limitationpurposes, these combinations may comprise combinations or laminatesinclude cloths, fabrics, threads, struts or other materials combinedwith an elastic material through sewing, adhesives, Velcro attachment oreven simple adjacent placement to elastic materials. These combinationsor laminates may comprise multiple materials that can increase theadherence of the cross strap to itself or other materials and may becomprise combined materials at particular, not all areas of the strap.Combinations of elastomeric materials with varying resistance propertiesare also contemplated.

The length, width and elastic properties of the elastic cross strap canbe varied based on the properties desired for the wearer and/or thesport the wearer will participate in. Although some of the discussionrelates to a single elastic cross strap, it is understood that multipleelastic cross straps or straps can be used to provide the functionalproperties of the elastic cross strap. More than one elastic cross strapor strap can be used such that their properties combine to provide thedesired resistance properties.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the elastic cross strap 160 has two cross straparms 162 and 164 respectively configured to attach to a lower arm end toa lower mounting facility 120 at a lower attachment point. The lowermounting facility further comprises securing elements, such as straps124 to engage the wearer's lower limb as well as points to attach thiselement to the other elements of the assembly. Embodiments of the lowermounting facility include but are not limited to a hard shell, pad,cuff, portions of the strap, portions of a sleeve or any other elementcapable of mounting the brace to the wearer's limb. In this embodiment,the lower mounting facility 120 is a shin shell 121 mounted anterior tothe knee and just below the wearer's knee with securing straps 124. Inthis embodiment, the tibial shell can be made of a flexible material orwhen desired, it can be made of more rigid material to provide sometibial protection to the wearer.

Means to attach the elastic cross strap arms to the mounting facilitiesinclude, but are not limited to common attachment means such as: rigidfasteners such as rivets, adhesives or sewing; slidable attachmentpoints such as slots or channels, pivoting fasteners such as rivets orbuttons; and removable fasteners such as Velcro, buttons, buckles, snapsor hooks. It is contemplated that the means of attachment, such as withVelcro straps or buckles, will let the cross strap be tightened orloosened as desired for comfort, support or specific resistance reasons.

As shown, the attachment of the elastic cross strap in FIG. 1 is throughlower attachment points that comprise multiple openings 122 in the shellpositioned so that the elastic cross strap arms 162 and 164 weavethrough the shell and extend up towards the wearer's thigh. Wheninstalled as in FIG. 1B, these elastic straps extend from the anteriortibia at the patellar attachment and wrap posterior with one wrappingmedial and one wrap laterally to attach to the wearer's anterior thighpad. This “X-strap” configuration creates elastic straps running from ananterior tibial pad 121 with one strap medial and one strap lateral tocross like an X in the popliteal fossa 103 behind the knee 105, thencoming back to an anterior of thigh pad 140 in the middle to upperone-third of the thigh.

It is also contemplated that the shin shell can be configured to allowthe same straps, or additional straps, clips or bands, to wrap aroundthe wearer's lower leg to secure the lower arms of the elastic crossstrap.

The upper mounting facility positions the brace assembly about the upperlimb of a user's joint. Embodiments of this facility can similarlyinclude those possible for the lower mounting facility. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 1, the upper arms of the elastic cross strapare configured to connect to each other and perform the function of theupper mounting facility 140, much like a thigh pad in a traditional kneebrace. In this embodiment, the thigh side connection is made byconnectors 146A and 146 B on the end of the upper arms extending up thewearer's thigh. As shown, this connection is made by complementary hookand loop type Velcro fasteners on the thigh end of the straps but anyconnection means can be used such as but not limited to complementaryhooks, buttons, buckles, slots, loops, adhesives or clips. In thisembodiment, the thigh end of the straps can provide the functionality ofa thigh cuff in traditional knee braces by wrapping the straps aroundthe wearer's thigh to help secure the assembly to the thigh. In theembodiment shown, sections of the upper arms also contain optionalfacility attachment elements defining a facility attachment point 142that allows the upper arms to attach to the upper mounting facility inparticular places such as the anterior position shown. Examples ofattachment element can include all those possible for the lower mountingfacility. In one embodiment, the attachment elements comprise matchingVelcro sections attached on the upper arms of the elastic cross strap.These sections are placed on the elastic cross strap arms 162 and 164 inpre-determined locations that will allow proper positioning of theelements and help ensure the attachment can be maintained anterior tothe limb and towards a front portion of the mounting facility.

For the embodiment of FIG. 1, the attachment point 142 functionsgenerally as an upper anterior resistance point and a point generallymid-way between the lower attachment points functions as the loweranterior resistance point.

In embodiments where the upper mounting facility comprises a thigh pad,as shown in FIG. 2, the thigh pad 240 can comprise any non-rigidmaterial that can engage the wearer's thigh and attach this pad to otherelements of the assembly. Suitable materials for this pad include butare not limited to cloth, cotton, plastic, nylon, mesh and leather. Thispad may further include padding or may be heat pliable, molded orcontoured to be more comfortable for the wearer. The embodiment in FIG.2 illustrates one embodiment of an anterior thigh pad 240 which can beshaped to the contour of the medial anterior thigh above the vastusmedialis oblique.

FIG. 2 also shows that embodiments of the assembly 200 can include alower mounting facility 220 having a tibial pad 221 with similarmechanical characteristics as the thigh pad 240.

In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the mounting facilities 220 and 240include at least one securing strap 224 and 244 operably connected tothe facilities to secure them onto the wearer's limbs. Any means tosecure the pads and tighten the pads onto the wearer's body is suitable.In one embodiment, a Velcro type securing strap is attached to each ofthe pads and when the strap is secured to the pad around the wearer'slimb, the pads are secured to the wearer. Other suitable means to securethe facilities to wearer's limbs include but are not limited to a sleevearound the limb and straps with adjusting facilities such as buckles.

It is contemplated that in some embodiments, rather than connecting theelastic cross strap 260 to the pads, the securing straps 224 and 244 canalso provide the attachment means for the pads to the elastic straps.For example, the securing strap may wrap all the way around the limb andhave the attachment means so that when the securing strap is secured tothe pads, the elastic cross straps are attached to the securing strap.

The elastic cross strap 260 is attached to the upper and lower mountingfacilities at upper and lower facility attachment points 242 and 222.This attachment can be made using any means that will secure the ends ofthe elastic cross straps onto the mounting facilities and is generallymade at a front portion of the mounting facility. As shown in FIG. 2,the elastic cross strap arms are permanently attached to the attachmentpoints 242 and 222 on the facility front portions 248 and 228 by rivetsat strap attachment points 276 and 286. Attachment means includes any ofthe attachment means already described. If the thigh pad is not used,the elastic cross straps can be wrapped around the wearer's thigh andconnected to themselves to secure the assembly to the wearer.

For the embodiment of FIG. 2, the attachment points 242 and 222 functiongenerally as the upper and lower anterior resistance pointsrespectively.

FIG. 2 also illustrates the adjusting facilities that can be used toadjust the length of the elastic cross strap. By adjusting the length ofthe elastic cross strap, the elastic tension and resistive properties ofthe cross strap can be adjusted. Adjustment element 278 comprises abuckle that allows the arms 272 and 282 of the elastic cross strap to beput through the buckle and adjusted. (An adjusting facility on the otherside of the brace can be provided but is not shown.) Examples ofsuitable adjusting facilities include but are not limited to buttons,Velcro, snaps or hooks or any type of adjustable connections that allowsa connection that can alter the length or resistance properties of theelastic cross strap. It is understood that providing elastic crossstraps of varying length is also another example of a suitable adjustingfacility.

In some embodiments of this brace assembly, it is beneficial for theelastic cross strap to provide a sufficient resistance force to anextension of the limbs about a joint at or near an anterior point of thewearer's leg. This resistance force is applied to the limbs about ajoint by resisting an extension of elements of the brace itself betweenthe cross origin and the anterior resistance points. By resisting theextension of elements of the brace, such as the anterior resistancepoints about the cross origin, elements of the brace are able to helplimbs resist their extension about the bending axis of the joint. Thebending axis of the joint is the actual or conceptually equivalent pointof the joint about which the limb/body portions bend or rotate. When thecross origin is positioned posterior to the joint, which is posterior tothe joint's bending axis, this typically means that the anteriorresistance point may be positioned anterior to the joint at a frontportion of the mounting facilities. The anterior resistance point istypically the point at which the resistance force is applied to thebrace portion that applies that resistance force to an extension forceapplied to the brace by the extension of the limbs. In most, but notnecessarily all embodiments, the anterior resistance point is the sameas the attachment points. For example, as represented in FIGS. 3A and3B, this assembly benefits from a configuration that maximizes thetensile force that the elastic cross straps can provide. In FIG. 3A, thelines 372 and 382 represent the upper and lower elastic cross strap armsrespectively of an elastic cross strap and the points 376 and 386represent their strap attachment points and point 366 represents thecross origin. In the embodiment illustrated, the cross origin 366 wouldbe posterior to the joint bending axis. The attachment points representexamples of the upper and lower anterior resistance points from whichthe cross strap provides the resistive force that counters the extensionforce caused by a joint extending. The line 309 generally represents thefront part of the wearer's leg. Using the upper strap attachment point376 as an example, the resistance force F1 that upper elastic crossstrap upper arm 372 provides at the upper anterior resistance point canbe translated into F1subX and F1subY forces as shown. Usingtrigonometric and static principals, the angle A1 allows the force to betranslated in the X direction as F1subX=F1 (sin A1). As compared to FIG.3B, where the angle A1prime of the elastic cross strap arm 372 to 309 isless than A1, the resistance force F1subX to be applied is less.Therefore, as designed, the attachment of the elastic cross strap ontothe brace assembly towards the anterior, or front portion of the brace,provides more resistance than known prior art brace assemblies withstraps that provide predominantly posterior resistance points andsmaller angles at A1. This positioning also reduces the force that wouldotherwise be put on the brace in the direction of F1suby. By reducingthis force, the forces that would tend to cause the brace mountingfacilities to migrate towards each other are reduced.

The resulting angles shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B will vary for each patientgiven their size, strength in order to control extension of the joint.In some embodiments of the brace assembly, the angle from the lowerattachment point and upper attachment point about the cross origin (FIG.3A angle B1) can be in a range of about 50 to 160 degrees, 60 to 140degrees or 75 to 115 degrees.

In addition to providing superior resistance properties, embodimentsutilizing an elastic cross strap may also provide the benefit ofeliminating the immediate hard stop typical of prior art embodimentsthat use hard stop features such as in a hinge or with a non-elasticstrap. This lack of a hard stop helps prevent migration of the brace andreduces the jerking feeling making the brace more comfortable for thewearer. The inclusion of providing progressive resistance with theelastic cross strap provides additional benefits. The elastic propertiesof the cross strap can provide resistive properties earlier in themotion arch of the joint thereby controlling extension sooner.Additionally, the elastic properties can provide increasing resistancein a linear fashion as the joint goes from flexion to extension whichincreases neuromuscular control and causes the extensor muscles togradually strengthen which is good for joint stability.

In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap has a limiting resistancecapability. For these embodiments, the limiting resistance may beprovided by the elastic properties of the elastic cross strap reachingits maximum extension and therefore the cross strap provides a directresisting force to further cross strap extension. This limitingresistance may also be provided by having a non-elastic material used incombination with an elastic material whereby when the limitingresistance point is met, the non-elastic material is engaged and thatprovides the direct resisting force to any further extension of theelastic cross strap.

Other Embodiments of the Brace:

One embodiment of the brace assembly comprises a single elastic crossstrap mounted in a way that provides the functionality of the brace. Asshown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, this embodiment comprises a single elasticcross strap 460 that is wrapped around the wearer's shin 402 to createthe lower mounting facility 420, the arms of the elastic cross strap arethen wrapped behind the knee to cross in the popliteal fossa of the kneeto create the cross origin 466. The arms are then extended and wrappedaround the wearer's thigh 404 to create the upper mounting facility 440.

In this embodiment of the brace assembly 400, the wrapping around theshin 402 may start with the middle of the elastic cross strap 460 beingplaced in the back of the calf. The wrapping can continue around thelower leg once or multiple times. At the point that the elastic crossstrap is extended from a position anterior to the shin and then upbehind the knee. There may be elements to help define the strapattachment points 486 to assist in keeping the arms of the cross strapproperly positioned anterior to the joint. The wrapping around the thigh404 may also be done once or multiple times with attachment means suchas hooks, bands, buttons, buckles, loops, clips, Velcro or straps tokeep the straps together and define the strap attachment point 476. Toclose the elastic cross strap, any connection means already disclosed,such as complementary hook-and-loop (Velcro) connectors can be used tosecure the upper arms to each other. For the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 4A and 4B, the strap attachment points 476 and 486 functiongenerally as the upper and lower anterior resistance pointsrespectively.

Although the embodiment in FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate an embodiment of asingle strap with two free ends, embodiments of one single strap in aloop are contemplated that can similarly be used as the brace assembly.

One embodiment similar to that in FIGS. 4A and 4B is shown in FIG. 10.This embodiment comprises an elastic wrap material such as latex orlatex-free Esmark Wrap sold by Medline Industries of Mansfield Mass.being used as the cross strap. The elastic wrap 1060 is positioned aboutthe joint as described with the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A and B andsecured about the wearer's leg by any type of securing means such as anadhesive tape 1012, securing the elastic wrap to itself by wrapping itaround the leg in multiple layers or by having a multiple propertyelastic cross strap that allows the strap to adhere to itself.

Another embodiment of the brace assembly utilizes a single elasticx-strap as the elastic cross strap. As shown in FIG. 5, the assembly 500has a single elastic cross strap 560 having a cross origin 566, upperarms 572, lower arms 582 and attachment points (shown in FIG. 6 asfasteners 673 and 683). This elastic cross strap functions similar tothe crossed single elastic cross strap. As shown, the elastic crossstrap arms have Velcro fasteners that act as adjustment elements 578 and588 on their end. These ends connect through loops 579 that are attachedto Velcro fasteners (not shown) on both the upper and lower mountingfacility. Adjustment element 578 is able to be pulled through the loops579 and secured to itself at different positions creating arms ofdifferent lengths. In one embodiment, this elastic x-strap is longenough to extend from the anterior tibia at the patellar attachment andwrap posteriorly with one arm wrapping medial and one wrapping laterallyto attach to the wearer's anterior thigh pad. This elastic “X-strap”configuration creates arms running from an anterior tibial pad with onestrap medial and one strap lateral to cross like an X in the poplitealfossa of the knee, then coming back to an anterior thigh pad in themiddle to upper one-third of the thigh.

Similarly, embodiments having two elastic straps can be made where twoelastic straps are used to create the elastic cross strap.

Embodiments of a brace assembly also include having a brace sleeve toprovide assembly elements. This type of embodiment is shown in FIGS. 5and 6. In FIG. 6, the upper and lower portions of the sleeve, 640 and620 can function as the including the upper and lower mountingfacilities respectively. The sleeve in these embodiments will restagainst the wearer's skin. The surface of the sleeve that will touch thewearer's skin, the under sleeve, is a non-slick surface to frictionallyengage the wearers limb. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the inner surfaceof the sleeve 696 comprises an open faced diamond shaped web weave thatfrictionally engages the skin and also allows portions of the skinsurface to be exposed. Other embodiments of the frictional surface ofthe under sleeve include but are not limited to high friction surfacessuch as rubber, felt, mesh or any combination of these surfaces. It iscontemplated that under sleeve material can be used so that the undersleeve is in contact with the skin around the knee under the elasticstraps to help keep them in place.

As shown in FIG. 6, embodiments of the brace assembly 600 can includeadditional fasteners 673 and 683. These fasteners provide the attachmentbetween the upper and lower mounting facilities and the ends of theelastic cross strap 660 and function as the strap attachment points.With this configuration, the facility attachment points 642 and 622 onthe mounting facilities comprises an entire anterior area of the bracehaving hook-and-loop type fasteners that can match with the undersurface of the fasteners 673 and 683. In this configuration, theplacement of the fasteners 673 and 683 up and down length of the braceadjusts the effective length of the elastic cross strap about thewearer's knee. This adjustment can be used in cooperation with theadjustment from the adjustment elements 678 and 688 to adjust the lengthof the elastic cross strap. Although these additional fasteners can be aseparate element from the elastic cross strap and the cross strap arms,they function as an extension of the elastic cross strap.

Some embodiments of the brace assembly without metallic or rigidelements able to comply with current sporting regulations, such as theFIFA rules.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 6 also includes optional flexible uprights697 on one or both sides of the brace. An upright as used in thisdescription is a hinge that has a high degree of axial stiffness and ahigh degree of bending flexibility. Examples of suitable uprights wouldbe coiled spring cables, chain links or ball-and-socket links, planarstruts or flexible struts that prevent the upper and lower mountingfacilities from urging towards each other when the assembly is subjectedto the forces of the elastic straps. The upright has the capability tobend in one or more planes while not compressing. The upright can bedirectly connected to the pads, sewn into the sleeve or be attached toother elements that are connected to the pads to keep the pads fromurging towards each other. In these embodiments, suitable material forthe uprights include, but is not limited to metals, Kevlar or carbonfiber type construction that will provide flexibility but not let theupright compress. Suitable overall shapes for the upright include butare not limited to a flexible rod that easily allows flexing of the kneewhen the uprights are installed on the wearer's leg.

Embodiments of the brace assembly can also include traditional kneebraces elements such as upper and lower frames with central hinges aswell as structures for patellar control. The elastic cross strap couldbe added to these assemblies to provide additional support andhyperextension protection. As shown in FIG. 2, the elastic cross strap260 can function with a thigh cuff 240 and a tibia cuff 221. The elasticcross strap crosses behind the knee and the arms attach to the facilityattachment points 242 and 222 on the cuffs. The hinge 290 of the bracecan be of any type uses with traditional braces to include, but notlimited to monocentric hinges, polycentric hinges, flexible uprights orany other hinge commonly used in joint braces.

Embodiments of the brace assembly can also include an elastic crossstrap with a single rigid side strut and hinge or flexible upright. Forexample, this type of embodiment could be worn as a prophylactic braceon the lateral side of the knee to reduce knee injuries and reduce thechances of rigid brace elements colliding with each other andinterfering with the user's leg movement. In these embodiments, thecross strap can comprise any of the descriptions included herein and isattached to the side strut or upright using the attachments meansdisclosed. The single rigid side strut and hinge can be similar to anyof the side brace and hinge designs disclosed and the flexible uprightcan be similar to any of the flexible uprights disclosed in otherembodiments with or without a sleeve.

Additional embodiments of the brace assembly are shown in FIGS. 7, 8 and9.

FIG. 7 shows a front view of one embodiment of the brace assembly 700with the side brace elements 730A and 730B turned forward forillustration. In this embodiment, the upper and lower mountingfacilities are defined by upper and lower portions of multiple sidebrace elements together with connector elements. One side brace element(e.g. medial) comprises an upper portion 732A, a lower portion 734A anda hinge 790A that allow the upper and lower portions to pivot relativeto each other. Similarly, the other brace element (e.g. lateral)comprises an upper portion 732B, a hinge 790B and a lower portion 734B.This embodiment cooperates with an elastic cross strap 760 that isattached at various points to the side brace elements. As shown, thelower mounting facility is defined by the lower portion of both sidebrace elements (portions 734A and 734B) together with the portion of theelastic cross strap 760 attached to the lower brace portions. In asimilar fashion, the upper mounting facility is defined by the upperportions (732A and 732B) of the medial and lateral brace elementscooperating with portions of the attached elastic cross strap 760.

The composition of the side brace elements in this embodiment can be ofany rigid or semi-rigid material that can engage the side of a wearer'sleg, attach the side elements to the elastic cross strap and provide adegree of rigidity to the assembly when stationary or when the upper andlower mounting facilities pivot about the hinges. Suitable materialsinclude but are not limited to plastics, metals, composites or anycombination of these materials. The brace elements may further includepadding or may be heat pliable, molded or contoured to be morecomfortable for the wearer. As shown (FIG. 8, 837), the side braceelement includes an interior pad portion such as but not limited tofoam, rubber, cloth, cotton, plastic, leather or any combination ofthese materials. The pad portion provides a comfortable surface betweenthe more rigid side element portions and the wearer's skin. Sideattachment points and on the side brace elements can include any meansof attaching the elastic cross strap to the brace elements. As shown,one embodiment of the side attachment means comprises a series of slotssuch as 736A and 736B in the side brace elements. In this embodiment,the slots allow the elastic cross strap to be put into one slot such as736A and exit another slot such as 739A. This “weaving” of the elasticcross strap through the side brace element attaches that portion of thatelastic cross strap to that portion of the brace element. The sideattachment points may allow the elastic cross strap and brace elementsto be adjusted for each user. As shown, the weaving of the strap throughthe brace allows the strap to move within the slots and therefore adjustthe position and/or tightening of the brace on a wearer. Although notrequired, in some embodiments, the attachment means are offset as shownwith one means, typically the attachment means posterior to the joint,closer to the brace hinge and the other means, typically the means mostanterior, furthest from the brace hinge. This configuration assists inthe proper positioning of the cross strap within the brace and about thejoint. Although weaving through slots are shown as an example attachmentmeans in this embodiment, it is understood that any method of attachingthe elastic cross strap to the side brace element is anticipated such asbut not limited to hook-and-loop fasteners, hooks, buttons, clips,adhesives or any other attachment or connection means. When using theside brace elements, the side attachment points between the braceelements and the elastic cross strap do not always coincide exactly withthe configurations of attachment points as described above and shown inFIGS. 1, 2, 4, 6 and in particular FIG. 3. It is understood that withside brace embodiments, the resistance to hyperextension can still beperformed by the elastic cross strap that is wrapped around the frontportion of the wearer's leg. In configurations that have attachmentpoints about the side of side brace elements and the strap wraps aroundthe limb, the elastic cross strap defines an anterior resistance pointthat will typically lie somewhere about half-way between the elasticcross straps attachment to one brace element and the other (for example,between 739A and 739B). It is from this anterior resistance point of theelastic cross strap, that the attachment point and anterior resistancepoint benefits described in FIGS. 3A and 3B are gained.

It is understood that alternative shapes of side braces may be used. Forexample, and not for limitation, one embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A and11B comprises brace assembly 1100 having a single lateral side braceconfigured with upper and lower paddle shaped side brace elements 1132and 1134 respectively, extending from the hinge 1190 and hooking towardsthe anterior side of the brace assembly. In this embodiment, the paddleshape provides some rigidity to the brace assembly while also helpingthe cross strap 1160 maintain a beneficial position anterior to thejoint providing a better anterior resistance point. Additionally,because only one lateral side brace is used, this can minimize thecollision of brace assembly elements that may otherwise occur with rigidor semi-rigid medial side brace elements. In this embodiment shown, theattachment means, such as slot 1139, can be positioned on the end of thepaddle so that it will allow both the attachment of the cross strapcoming from the lateral side of the joint, as well as help secure thecross strap coming from the medial side of the joint. As shown, the slot1139 is positioned lower on the paddle end so that the cooperation ofthe paddle end and the cross strap coming lateral helps position thecross strap portion going medial from the upper mounting facility sothat it is not urged towards the joint when put under tension. The sametype of configuration can be used on the lower paddle as shown. It isunderstood, that other means to guide the cross strap at the ends of thepaddles can be used such as but not limited to ridges, multiple slots,channels, rings or other attachment means. For example, in oneembodiment, the distal ends of the paddles can have two open slots thatare dimensioned to allow the cross strap to be easily put into the slotswhile the slots help prevent the cross strap portions in the slots fromurging towards the joint when the strap is put under tension.

The composition of the elastic hyperextension cross strap is similar tothe descriptions described for other embodiments.

When assembled, as shown in FIG. 8 (with the wearer's knee), embodimentsof the brace assembly function similar to the embodiments describeherein. The upper mounting facility is shown generally as 840 and thelower mounting facility is shown generally as 820. The upper portions(832A and 832B) and lower portions (834A and 834B) of the brace elementscan pivot about the hinges 890. A portion of the elastic cross strap(860B) wraps around the front of the wearer's leg about the thigh,another portion of the elastic cross strap (860A) wraps around the frontof the wearer's leg about the tibia and the elastic cross strap crossesbehind the knee creating a cross-origin 866. The side brace elementshelp keep the position of the elastic cross strap as well as providesome rigidity to the assembly.

Shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, an optional securing strap 838 can be strappedaround the wearer's leg to help secure the brace assembly on the leg.The securing strap is secured to both of the side brace elements at asecuring point and can include a buckle 839 or other means to connectthe ends of the securing strap. It is understood that securing strapscan be used on either the upper or lower portions or both portions. Thesecuring strap may also be used around the front of the wearer's leg ifnecessary and can be positioned at various locations between the hingeand the distal end of the brace portions.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the brace assembly 900 with sidebrace elements can be integrated with embodiments similar to those shownin FIGS. 1A and 1B. As shown in FIG. 9, a shin shell 921 can be attachedto portions of the elastic cross strap 960 so that the shin shellprovides some protection to the shin of the wearer. As shown, the uppershaped edge 927 of the shin shell in embodiments can be shaped to alignwith the exterior shape of the tibial tubercle of the knee. As describedabove, the shin shell can also be made of a flexible material or whendesired, it can made of more rigid material to provide some tibialprotection to the wearer.

One embodiment of the brace assembly further comprises configuring thetibial pad to function as an endo-skeleton such as with a wearer's shinguard, as may be required in a sport such as soccer, to support anteriortibia and anterior drawer control. FIG. 9 shows the shin shell attachedto a shin guard 929.

Although not necessary, it is contemplated that some embodiments of theassembly can be capable of being integrated with a patellar control-openpatellar donut as prescribed. In these embodiments, the assembly mayinclude straps for patellar subluxation that stabilizes the elasticcross strap or hinges.

Although the above description and terminology of the components of theembodiments above utilize the terminology of a knee, it is understoodand contemplated that the assembly can be applied to other joints. Forexample, and not for limitation, embodiments of the assembly can also beused with a person's elbow, back, shoulder or ankle. Such embodiments ofthe brace assembly are shown in FIGS. 12-16. For these otherembodiments, the terms “upper” and “lower” such as in describing themounting units, are still used to mean mounting units on sides of ajoint whether they are on opposite sides or relatively higher or lowerrelative to the joint or not. For example, in braces used for ashoulder, the upper mounting unit can be mounted about the torso orshoulder of the wearer and the lower mounting unit can be mounted aroundthe humerus. Similarly, in braces for an elbow, the upper mounting unitcan be mounted about the humerus and the lower mounting unit can bemounted about the radius and ulna. In braces for an ankle, the upper andlower mounting facilities may both be above the ankle, but the brace maystill function satisfactorily.

Additionally, for some of these alternative embodiments for joints otherthan knees, it is understood that the general description of theplacement of the brace elements about the joint accommodates differentjoints and accommodates the extension/flexion resistance the brace isintended to provide. Posterior placement of the cross origin generallymeans on the opposite side of the extension or flexion that the brace isresisting and anterior placement of elements such as resistance pointsis on the same side of the body part going into extension or flexion.For example, the posterior placement of the cross origin is on theopposite (posterior) side of the extension of the elbow even though thatside of an arm is generally anterior to the wearer's body when the armsare down. Similarly, the resistance points of the brace are on the sameside as the extension even though that side of the arm is typically onthe posterior side of the wearer's body.

FIGS. 12A-12F illustrate one embodiment of a brace to be used on anankle. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12A, a single flexiblesleeve is wrapped tightly around the lower portion of the leg above theankle with two straps extending from the lower portion of the sleeve.The cross strap arms extend from the lower attachment point of thesleeve (lower mounting facility) through the cross origin and back tothe upper attachment point of the sleeve (upper mounting facility). Asillustrated in FIG. 12B, the lower portion of the cross strap arms 1282extend from the lower attachment point 1286 and the upper portion of thecross strap arms 1272 are attached to the upper attachment point 1276 atthe upper portion of the sleeve 1296 through an attachment means 1273such as, but not limited to hook and loop fasteners, clips, buttons,snaps or any other method of attaching. FIG. 12C illustrates how thecross strap arms are positioned under the foot of the wearer. FIG. 12Dshows how the cross straps form the cross origin 1266 on the lateralankle. FIG. 12E shows a front view of an installed brace showing how onecross strap 1272 passes anterior to the leg to attach medially to thebrace upper attachment point. FIG. 12F illustrates a rear view of aninstalled brace showing one cross strap 1272 passing posterior to theleg and attaching medially to the brace upper attachment point 1276. Thepositioning of the brace elements as shown, help rolling of the anklefrom outside to inside. Although the eventual lower attachment point forthe strap is above the ankle in some embodiments, the point of resistantforce (as described above in FIG. 3A-3B) for the lower portions of thecross straps can be at a point proximal to the bottom of the wearer'sfoot. In this embodiment, because of the relative location of the upperand lower attachment points relative to the cross origin, the anglesbetween the attachment points about the cross origin can be differentthan in other embodiments and still provide satisfactory results.

In some embodiments for the ankle, the lower mounting facility or thelower attachment point can located at or near the bottom of the wearer'sfoot. For these embodiments, the mounting facility may be a frictionalengagement of the strap with the bottom of the foot or an additionalelement such as a sole pad that also attaches to the strap.

Another embodiment could include a non-elastic portion of the crossstrap that extends from the bottom of the sleeve to a point proximal tothe sole of the foot such that the attachment of the non-elastic portionof the strap to an elastic portion functions as the lower attachmentpoint. An embodiment of this type may be configured so that the lowerresistance point is about where the sole of the foot transitions to themedial inside of the foot.

In some embodiments of the ankle, the brace can be positioned such thatthe cross origin is on the medial ankle to prevent the rolling of theankle from the inside to out. It is also contemplated that the brace canbe configured so that cross strap create a cross origin on the lateralankle as well as create a cross origin on the medial ankle to helpresist rolling of the ankle in either direction.

Although the embodiment in FIGS. 12A-12D resist rolling of the ankle, itis understood that other embodiments can be used to resist othermovement of the ankle. For example and not for limitation, the crossorigin can also be placed above the area of the talus bone of the anklewith the upper attachment point being at a position posterior to thetibia and the lower attachment point being near the bottom of the footto help resist dorsiflexion of the ankle.

Additional brace embodiments for the ankle are contemplated that includecuffs, frames, sleeves, hinges, struts and other elements as describedherein.

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate an embodiment of the brace for a wearer's backwhere the back is viewed as a joint. FIG. 13A illustrates a rear view ofa brace having a frame 1396 and a cross brace having a cross origin1366, arms 1382 and 1372 and the arms creating the upper and lowermounting facilities 1340 and 1320. The frame helps guide the cross straparms and provide some rigidity to help the mounting facilities andattachment points maintain their position on the back. The positioningof the cross origin in the small of the wearer's back helps resistbending forward of the wearer. As illustrated in FIG. 13A, it isunderstood that the cross straps can be integrated into portions of theframe (as shown) as well as be separate straps interoperating with theframe. FIG. 13B shows how the brace is mounted from the front of thewearer with the attachment points 1376 and 1386 being where the strapsattach to themselves as the upper and lower mounting facilities.Additional embodiments for the back are contemplated that include cuffs,frames, sleeves, hinges, struts and other elements as described herein.

FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate one embodiment of the brace for a wearer'sshoulder. As shown in FIG. 14A, the brace has a frame and attachmentpoints for an elastic cross strap. The frame has a medial 1496M, lateral1496L, anterior 1496A, superior 1496S and posterior 1496 (behind)portion. There are various openings 14960 designed into the brace forwearer comfort but still allow for the proper transfer of force withinthe brace. The positioning of this brace helps resist abduction andexternal rotation of the humerus. As shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C, thecross strap is configured such that a cross origin 1466 is positionedacross the torso from the shoulder being braced. In this exampleembodiment, the cross origin is about in the axillary fossa of theuser's opposite shoulder. As shown in the front view of FIG. 14B, fromthe cross origin 1466, cross strap arms 1472 and 1482 extend towards andattach to the attachment points 1476 and 1486 on the portion of thebrace functioning as the upper mounting facility 1440 and the lowermounting facility 1420. As shown, the upper mounting facility is locatedabove the shoulder joint and the lower mounting facility is locatedbelow the shoulder joint. As shown in the rear view of FIG. 14C, andconsistent with the other descriptions herein, the cross strap arm 1472that is attached to the lower attachment point in the front is the crossstrap arm 1472 that is attached to the upper attachment point 1476 inthe back and vice versa. Although not required, this embodiment containsguide rings 1439 through which the cross strap arms pass on the anteriorand posterior portion of the brace to help guide the cross strap arms.Additional embodiments for the shoulder are contemplated that includecuffs, frames, sleeves, hinges, struts and other elements as describedherein.

FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate one embodiment of the brace for a wearer'selbow. As shown in FIG. 15A, the brace has a cross brace having a crossorigin 1566, cross strap arms and the arms create the upper and lowermounting facilities 1540 and 1520. The positioning of the cross originin the antecubital fossa of the elbow and the strap attachment points onthe other side of the arm helps resist hyperextension of the elbow.Additional embodiments for the elbow brace are contemplated that includecuffs, frames, sleeves, hinges, struts and other elements as describedherein.

FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate another embodiment of the brace for a wearer'sknee. As shown in FIG. 16A, this embodiment has a cross strap brace withan upper mounting facility 1640, lower mounting facility 1620 and across strap 1660 configured to create a cross origin behind the wearer'sknee to resist hyperextension. This embodiment also comprises an uppercuff, a lower cuff and a hinge capable of connecting the cuffs. FIG. 16Billustrates how elements of this embodiment are positioned relative toeach other and the wearer's knee.

Although not necessary, in some embodiments of the assembly, theassembly further includes a covering that can be decorative and/or canprovide a sleek/smooth surface for the wearer.

One Embodiment of the Brace Assembly in Operation:

One embodiment of the disclosed inventions will be used to furtherillustrate the operational aspects of the invention. Although theembodiment discussed utilizes an assembly embodiment with a shin shellas the lower mounting facility, it is understood that embodiments of theinvention may be applied to an assembly without a shin shell. For thoseother embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 5, the attachment of the strapson or around the wearer's thigh in a sleeve provides many of the samefunctions as the upper mounting facility described below.

One embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, is usedabout a wearer's knee 105. The brace assembly 100 is initially securedon the wearer's shin 102. This is done by securing the shin shell 121 onthe shin 102 and wrapping the securing straps 124 around the calf. Thissecuring is done at a point of that calf such that the movement of theshell towards the knee is minimized. Once secured on the shin, theelastic cross strap arms 162 and 164 are wrapped behind or posterior tothe knee creating an x-pattern as the cross origin 166 in the poplitealfossa of the knee and then wrapped anterior and around the thigh. Thecross strap arms are wrapped so that one arm wraps from the lowerattachment point 122 laterally, then behind the knee and then medial andupwards to the upper attachment point 142. The other arm wraps from thelower attachment point 122 medial, then behind the knee and them lateraland upward to the upper attachment point 142. Connectors 146A and 146B,such as Velcro, of the cross strap arms 162 and 164 are secured to eachother forming the upper mounting facility 140. The upper arms of thecross strap are attached to matching Velcro fasteners on the cross strapsuch that they create facility attachment point 142 anterior on thethigh. As with the shin shell 121, the placement of the upper mountingfacility 140 is done to minimize the movement of the facility towardsthe knee 105.

Once secured on the thigh 104 and the tibia, the presence of the elasticstraps in the X configuration helps prevent the knee fromhyperextension. Hyperextension is prevented by the cooperation of thesecured ends of the straps with the positioning of the straps behind theknee. The elastic properties of the cross strap can provide resistiveproperties early in the motion arch of the joint thereby help controlextension early in the motion arch. As the joint extends, the elasticstraps stretch and provide progressively more resistance. When the kneereaches a desired limit, the elastic straps reach a significantresistance level that prevents further extension. This resistance doesnot provide a hard stop of the extension. By not having a hard stop,brace migration is minimized as well as the discomfort caused by suddenjerking of the brace when the hard stop if reached. Additionally, thisresistance approach uniquely provides therapeutic benefits such asincreasing neuromuscular control and causing the extensor muscles togradually strengthen which is beneficial for joint stability.

The point of attachment, facility attachment points 142 and 122, of theelastic straps and the thigh and tibial pad respectively are such thatthe desired resistance provided by the anterior resistance points allowproper knee movement but prevents hyperextension. Additionally, if thebrace assembly 100 has good frictional contact with the skin, rotationalsupport of the knee joint is also provided. As the wearer uses the braceassembly, and as their need for support and/or comfort changes, theelastic straps can be tightened or loosened to change the elastictension on the system by simply removing and reattaching the straps withthe Velcro attaching means.

The embodiment of FIG. 4 operates similar to FIG. 1. In this embodiment,the elastic cross strap 460 is used to function as both the lowermounting facility 420 and the upper mounting facility 440. This canstart with the elastic cross strap being initially wrapped around theshin 402 of the wearer and crossing the arms around each other anteriorto the shin. Once secured on the shin 402, the same methods describedfor FIG. 1 can be followed to mount the brace assembly on the knee. Inthis embodiment, the anterior resistance points are at points of theelastic cross strap at the front of the wearer's thigh and shin such asat strap attachment points 476 and 486.

The embodiment of FIG. 10 operates similar to the embodiments describedfor FIGS. 1 and 4.

Other Embodiments of the Brace Assembly in Operation:

The embodiments of FIGS. 2, 5 and 6 operate in a similar manner to thoseshown in FIGS. 1 and 4. With the embodiments of FIGS. 2, 5 and 6, theupper and lower cuff or the sleeve is mounted around the knee and thecross strap is attached to the attachment points and adjusted. Theelastic cross straps can be adjusted so that the length of the upper andlower arms between the attachment points is made longer or shorterdepending on the person wearing the brace assembly and the desiredtension. In embodiments, the uprights can be contained within the undersleeve or other covering that connects the hinges to the upper and lowerpad. The placement of the uprights maintain the relative distancebetween the upper and lower pad and therefore helps maintain theresistance and support provided by the elastic straps.

The embodiments of FIGS. 7-9 operate similar to those in FIGS. 1 and 4.With the embodiments of FIGS. 7-9, the elastic cross strap can alreadybe attached through the slots in the brace elements or it can beattached as part of putting the brace on by the wearer. The wearer putstheir leg between the cross origin of the elastic cross strap and theportions of the elastic cross strap that become positioned on the frontof the wearer's leg. The brace assembly is positioned so that the uppermounting facility is positioned above the joint and the lower mountingfacility is positioned below the joint. The elastic cross strap is thenadjusted with respect to the side attachment points by sliding the strapin and out of the slots. If necessary, the connectors on the end of thestrap are unconnected to allow more adjustment of the strap. Onceadjusted, the connectors are secured to each other so that the braceassembly is secured around the wearer's leg about the joint and providesthe adequate amount of tension. If provided, the securing strap can beadjustably connected by a buckle to help further secure the brace on thewearer's leg. Once secured, the upper mounting facility is able to pivotabout the hinge while the cooperation of the cross-origin with otherportions of the elastic cross strap help prevent the wearer's knee fromhyperextension.

The example embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12A-12F operate in similarfashion to the embodiments already described. In this embodiment, thewearer positions a sleeve 1296 on the lower leg above the wearer'sankle. This may be positioned by sliding a closed sleeve (FIG. 12B) overthe foot and the ankle or it may be positioned by wrapping an opensleeve (FIGS. 12A, 12D-12F) around the ankle and closing with closingmeans 1297 such as hook and loop type fasteners. The sleeve includeslower attachment points 1286 that attach two cross straps 1282A and1282P with the sleeve medially at the lower attachment points 1286. Theunattached ends of the two cross straps are then positioned about thewearer's foot and ankle. One cross strap, the anterior strap 1282A, isbrought under the middle of the foot and back over the lateral anklebone and brought behind the leg up to an upper attachment point 1276 onthe sleeve on the lower leg. The upper attachment point 1276 is on aposterior or medial side of the lower leg. The other cross strap, theposterior strap 1282P, is brought under the heel of the foot, over thelateral ankle bone and brought in front of the leg up to an upperattachment point 1276 on the sleeve on the lower leg. The upperattachment point 1276 is on an anterior or medial side of the lower leg.This configuration positions the cross origin 1266 at a location on thelateral ankle bone and creates resistance points for the strap at bothattachment points. To analyze the forces consistent with FIGS. 3A and 3Bin this ankle embodiment, the upper attachment point 1276 represents theupper point of resistance, however the lower attachment point 1286 maynot always define the lower point of resistance. The lower point ofresistance, when the straps are frictionally engaged with the bottom ofthe foot, is the point where this frictional engagements starts alongthe strap from the cross origin such as 1286′ and 1286″. For embodimentswith a mounting means under the foot as described earlier, the point atwhere this mounting means is attached to the strap may function as thepoint of resistance.

The embodiments of FIGS. 13A-13B start operation by positioning theframe portion 1396 on the back. Typically, this is positioned proximalto the lumbar area of the spine. Whether positioned already on the frameor separately, the cross strap arms 1382 and 1372 are configured on theframe such that the cross origin 1366 is positioned generally inalignment with, and in the middle of the lumbar area of the spine. Inthis embodiment, two cross straps extend from this cross origin, eachhaving an upper arm 1372 and a lower arm 1382. The upper arm 1372 of afirst strap extends up the torso to the right lateral side and wrapsaround the front of the wearer. The lower arm 1382 of the first strapextends down the torso to the left lateral side and wraps around thefront of the wearer about at a waist position. The second strap has anupper arm extending up the torso to the left lateral side and wrapsaround the front of the wearer and the lower arm extends down the torsoto the right lateral side and also wraps around the front of the wearerabout at a waist position. The upper arms can be secured to each othercreating the upper mounting facility 1340. The lower arms are alsosecured to each other creating the lower mounting facility 1320.

The embodiments of FIGS. 14A-14D utilize the cross strap to restrict theabduction and external rotation of the shoulder. This is typicallyconfigured by locating the point for the cross origin 1466 in theaxillary fossa of the opposite shoulder. From this point, arms 1482 and1472 extend across the torso and attach at attachment points 1476 and1486 on the upper and lower mounting facilities respectively. Thesefacilities are shown as being positioned on the upper shoulder above thejoint and on the humerus below the shoulder joint. The arms of thestraps are such that a continual strap extends from the upper mountingfacility around the back, through the cross origin and around the frontof the wearer to attach on the lower mounting facility. Another set ofarms extend from the lower mounting facility around the back, throughthe cross origin and around the front of the wearer to attach on theupper mounting facility.

The example embodiments of FIGS. 15A-15B function similar to the kneeembodiments except they are applied to the elbow joint. In theseembodiments, the cross strap is configured such that the cross origin ispositioned to resist extension of the radius and ulna relative to thehumerus. This is typically configured by locating the point for thecross origin in the antecubital fossa of a wearer's elbow and having thecross strap arms extend up and down the arm of the wearer. As shown inthe side view of FIG. 15A, the cross strap arms wrap around the upperpart and the lower part of the arm such that the attachment points areon the opposite side of the arm from the antecubital fossa. In theembodiment shown, the cross strap is also wrapped around the arm to havethat portion of the strap function as both the upper and the lowermounting facilities. FIG. 15B shows a front view of the elbow brace.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 16A-16B operates similar to the other kneebrace embodiments described above such as described for FIG. 2.

For some embodiments, the length of the strap, and the tension put onthe strap when attaching to the attachment points, can be varied to varythe resisting force on the joint utilizing attachment means describedearlier.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized thatthe optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, toinclude variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and mannerof operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obviousto one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to thoseillustrated in the drawings and described in the specification areintended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of theprinciples of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications andchanges will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is notdesired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operationshown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications andequivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of theinvention. Although this invention has been described in the above formswith a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that thepresent disclosure has been made only by way of example and numerouschanges in the details of construction and combination and arrangementof parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and scopeof the invention.

1. An elastic brace assembly comprising: an elastic cross strap formingan upper mounting facility and a lower mounting facility; and theelastic cross strap further forming a cross origin between the upper andlower mounting facilities whereby the cross strap provides a resistanceforce to an extension of the upper mounting facility and the lowermounting facility about the cross origin when the cross origin ispositioned posterior to a user's joint.
 2. The elastic brace assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the elastic cross strap further comprises at least oneportion forming a cross strap arm extending from the cross origin to atleast one upper anterior resistance point and at least one portionforming a cross strap arm extending from the cross origin to at leastone lower anterior resistance point.
 3. The elastic brace assembly ofclaim 2 wherein the upper and lower anterior resistance points areportions of the cross strap arms capable of applying the resistanceforce to the extension of the upper and lower mounting facility aboutthe cross origin.
 4. The elastic brace assembly of claim 2 wherein theelastic cross strap comprises an elastic wrap whereby the wrap can bewrapped around the user both above and below the joint to create theupper and lower mounting facilities respectively, portions of theelastic wrap form at least two cross strap arms from the lower anteriorresistance point, one cross strap arm wraps lateral and one cross straparm wraps medial to cross posterior to the joint in an x-pattern as thecross origin and the cross strap arms continue from the cross origin towrap anterior to the upper anterior resistance point with one crossstrap arm wrapping lateral and one cross strap arm wrapping medial. 5.The elastic brace assembly of claim 2 wherein the elastic cross strapcomprises at least two cross strap arms extending from the cross originto both the upper and lower anterior resistance points.
 6. The elasticbrace assembly of claim 2 wherein the elastic cross strap comprises atleast two cross strap arms extending from the lower anterior resistancepoints to the upper anterior resistance points and crossing at the crossorigin.
 7. The elastic brace assembly of claim 2 wherein the upperanterior resistance point comprises a portion of the upper mountingfacility and the lower anterior resistance point comprises a portion ofthe lower mounting facility.
 8. The elastic brace assembly of claim 7wherein: the elastic cross strap further comprises at least two armsextending from the lower anterior resistance points to the upperanterior resistance points and crossing at the cross origin; the uppermounting facility further comprises an upper portion of a side brace;and the lower mounting facility further comprises a lower portion of theside brace whereby when the upper and lower anterior resistance pointsare positioned anterior to a thigh and shin of the user respectively andthe cross origin is positioned posterior to a knee joint of the user,the elastic cross strap provides the resistance force to the extension.9. The elastic brace assembly of claim 8 wherein the upper and lowerportions of the side brace are connected by a hinge.
 10. The elasticbrace assembly of claim 8 wherein the upper and lower portions of theside brace are connected by a flexible upright.
 11. An elastic braceassembly comprising: at least one side brace element having an upper andlower brace portion; an elastic cross strap; and the elastic cross strapattached to each of the side brace elements whereby the elastic crossstrap is capable of providing a resistance force to an extension of theupper and lower brace portions about a joint bending axis when the sidebrace elements are mounted about the joint bending axis.
 12. The elasticbrace assembly of claim 11 wherein: the elastic cross strap forms across origin posterior to the bending axis; and the elastic cross strapfurther comprises at least two cross strap arms extending from the crossorigin to an upper anterior resistance point and at least two crossstrap arms extending from the cross origin to a lower anteriorresistance point.
 13. The elastic brace assembly of claim 12 wherein theupper and lower anterior resistance points are portions of the crossstrap arms configured to apply the resistance force to an extensionforce on the brace assembly about the bending axis.
 14. The elasticbrace assembly of claim 12 wherein: each upper and lower portions attachto the elastic cross strap to define a upper and lower mounting facilityrespectively; and the upper and lower anterior resistance points aredefined as portions of the cross strap arms providing the resistanceforce to the extension of the brace assembly about the bending axis. 15.The elastic brace assembly of claim 14 wherein the upper and lowerportions of the side brace are connected by a hinge.
 16. The elasticbrace assembly of claim 14 wherein the upper and lower portions of theside brace are connected by a flexible upright.
 17. A method ofsupporting a wearer's joint, the method comprising the steps of:securing a first portion of an elastic cross strap about one bodyportion, the one body portion joined to a second body portion at awearer's joint; positioning the elastic cross strap about the joint toform a cross origin posterior to the joint; and securing a secondportion of the elastic cross strap about the second body portion of thejoint whereby the elastic cross strap is capable of providing resistanceto an extension of the wearer's body portions about the joint.
 18. Themethod of claim 17 wherein the step of positioning the elastic crossstrap further comprises positioning at least two cross strap armsextending between at least one anterior resistance point on both thefirst portion and the second portion of the elastic cross strap.
 19. Themethod of claim 18 wherein the joint is a knee joint.
 20. The method ofclaim 19 wherein the step of positioning the elastic cross strap furthercomprises: positioning at least one of the cross strap arms from thefirst portion of the elastic cross strap lateral to behind the kneejoint and then medial to the second portion of the elastic cross strap;positioning at least one of the cross strap arms from the first portionof the elastic cross strap medial to behind the knee joint and thenlateral to the second portion of the elastic cross strap; and the crossstrap arms crossing behind the knee joint in an x-pattern as the crossorigin in the popliteal fossa of the knee joint.